An Introduction to the Gospels and Acts

Introducing the Gospels and Acts is a journey through the first century Mediterranean world, introducing readers to the world of Jesus of Nazareth and the believers who composed and shared stories inspired by him. It provides overviews of context and major passages, as well as introduces readers to the Apocryphal Gospels and Acts. Myers focuses on the writings themselves, giving basic historical background before digging more deeply into a chosen contextual theme. Readers will see the continuing relevance of the Gospels and Acts for today and learn to be responsible readers of these works.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Introduction:
The Gospels and Acts are not merely a collection of the first five books of the New Testament; they transport us to the vibrant world of the first century Mediterranean. In this concise book, Alicia D. Myers takes us on a captivating journey through these texts, unveiling the captivating world of Jesus of Nazareth and the believers who crafted and disseminated stories inspired by him. Myers offers comprehensive overviews of the historical context and key passages in each canonical work, while also introducing readers to the Apocryphal Gospels and Acts to showcase the broader phenomenon of early Christian writing.
Setting the Stage:
After immersing readers in the literary context of the Gospels and Acts, Myers delves into the writings themselves, providing a foundational historical background before exploring a specific contextual theme for each work. These six themes encompass the politics and history of Roman Palestine, the expressions of Second Temple Judaism, the understanding of identity and human worth in the Roman world, the virtue of hospitality, the influence of Hellenistic philosophies, and the process of canonizing the New Testament. Rather than avoiding the challenging and sometimes perplexing aspects of these texts, Myers encourages readers to engage more deeply, allowing themselves to fully immerse in the peculiarity and unexpected familiarity of the Roman world.
The Continuing Relevance:
Through this immersive exploration, readers will discover the enduring relevance of the Gospels and Acts for our contemporary lives. They will gain valuable insights into the cultural, social, and religious dynamics of the time, which continue to shape our understanding of the world. Moreover, readers will develop the skills necessary to be responsible and discerning readers of these works, ensuring their continued significance for generations to come.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Gospels and Acts invite us to embark on a transformative journey through time and space. By immersing ourselves in the world of Jesus and his followers, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human nature, the power of faith, and the enduring significance of the Christian message. This book serves as a valuable guide, illuminating the path to a more profound understanding and appreciation of these sacred texts.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 141 x 227 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190926816